Envelope Characterization and Optimization

Recommended Prerequisites

Knowledge in the area of Building Physics, Building Technology, Heat Transfer Phenomena or the having attended the prelimanary course "Introduction to thermodynamics and heat transfer."

Teaching Methods

The course content will consist of theory and practical classes, including advanced knowledge on the topics specified in the syllabus. Students are encouraged to use the competences thus acquired in practical exercises, laboratory activities and in-situ surveys/inspections and to develop and to discuss research works.  

Learning Outcomes

Provide students with the skills enabling them: (1) to master the methods for determining hygrothermal properties of construction solutions in steady state and transient state; (2) to acquire a wider understanding of properties of materials and construction solutions, as well as the applicable requirements; (3) to acquire detailed knowledge of the techniques of experimental characterization and inspection of the building envelope; (4) to identify opportunities for optimizing construction solutions for the envelope and ways to assess their influence on the energy performance of buildings; (5) to identify and assess innovative solutions that ensure optimal cost solutions, a Passive House standard or a Nearly Zero Energy Building standard.

Work Placement(s)

No

Syllabus

1 - Functional requirements for materials and construction solutions;

2 - Methods to determine the hygrothermal properties of building solutions;

3 - Methods to assess special elements (e.g. Trombe walls, solariums);

4 - Techniques for laboratory characterization of materials and construction solutions;

5 - Techniques for in-situ inspection of envelope (e.g. thermographic analysis, evaluation of heat fluxes using flux sensors, pressurization test);

6 - Advanced Analysis and optimization of constructive systems.

Assessment Methods

Assessment
Synthesis work: 25.0%
Resolution Problems: 25.0%
Exam: 50.0%

Bibliography

• Zemella G.; Faraguna A., "Evolutionary Optimisation of Façade Design, A New Approach for the Design of Building Envelopes", Springer.

• Bergman T. L.; Lavine A. S., Incropera F.P.; DeWitt D. P., "Fundamentals of Heat and Mass Transfer", 7th Edition, Wiley.

• Clarke, J. A., Energy simulation in building design, Adam Hilger, Bristol and Boston.

• International Organization for Standardization, ISO 13790: Energy performance of buildings - Calculation of energy use for space heating and cooling.

• International Organization for Standardization, ISO 10211: Thermal Bridges in Building Construction – Heat Flows and Surface Temperatures – Detailed Calculations.

• Schnieders J.,  "Passive Houses in South West Europe", Passivhaus Institut.